Let's Get Married AGAIN — Which Vendors Would I Hire For MY Big Day?
There are so many things that I would do differently if I were getting married again (to my wonderful Todd, of course). But now that I know so much more about the wedding industry itself (than a fresh-out-of-college graphic design student would), and have had the privilege to network with so many different vendors over the past few years, I can definitely say that there is a lot about my wedding day that I wish I could do over again!
I have kept a mental list over the past few years of different vendors that I recommend and would use in this imaginary second wedding that I’m planning for us, but I’ve decided to share the updates with you (updated annually). So, without further ado, here is my 2019 compilation of preferred vendors—the people who I would trust with my own special day if I were to live it over again.
Pin one of these for later:
WEDDING PLANNER:
Ines & Marie | Full Service; Day of Coordinating
I did not have a wedding planner, and I would definitely hire one if I were to go through that again! Ines & Marie offer florals, paper goods as well as full styling and coordinating. I have had the pleasure of working with them on a styled shoot and networking in the same Tuesdays Together chapter. I love how they run the show—they are really organized and specific and they have a whole team to back them up. I love that!
Honorable Mention:
Rhiannon Bosse | Full Service Planning
I love Rhiannon’s style and dedication to the details. She only takes on a few weddings every year, and her pricing reflects that, but she also rolls out the red carpet for her Brides.
PHOTOGRAPHER:
Shanell Photography | Film & Digital
Most of the beautiful photos that you see around my website are by this talented lady! A film and digital photographer, I am so honored that I was able to partner with her this past year for my branding shoot. I love her light and colorful photos—fine art without being too stuffy—and she is a master at flat lay styling!
Honorable Mention:
KR Moreno Photography | Film
If you are looking for beautiful, fine art photography, look no further. Kaylea has a sweet heart and a great eye for lighting and natural texture. If Todd and I were getting married again, she is definitely be someone I would try to book right away!
Kristen Cloyd Photography | Digital
Based in Chicago, I love her light and airy style as well as her personable and genuine heart. A newer photographer to the field, she is quickly making a name for herself and I am so honored to call her a “real life” friend.
FLORIST:
A Day Design | Florals; Event Planning
I would likely use the floral services of the wedding planners, but I often find myself crushing over Shelby's work. Romantic and loose without being too trendy. I haven't worked with her myself, but she has a great reputation.
VENUE:
The Detroit Institute of Arts | Walter B. Ford Great Hall
The hubby and I are both artists and I can't believe that I didn't think of this venue when we were married a few years ago! I love the idea of celebrating in this beautiful environment with the white marble and the elegant pillars... I would definitely consider having our ceremony and pictures taken here!
Honorable Mention:
Greencrest Manor B&B
I stumbled across this BEAUTIFUL venue shortly after posting my vendor recommendations last year. I love this history rich bed and breakfast. A very English feel, the grounds are grand and definitely the best part of this venue (the style of the rooms of the B&B itself aren't exactly my favorite, but the rest of the venue makes up for it...).
Greenfield Village; The Henry Ford
I am a history lover, and one of my favorite places in the world is Greenfield Village. For an outdoor ceremony, I would probably choose Pennsylvania Courtyard or the Coltswold Cottage. The Lovett Hall Ballroom would be a beautiful reception location—and I love the idea of pictures in the Prechter Promenade.
HAIR / MAKEUP:
Stephanie Stearnes
Stephanie has become a great friend of mine over the past year, and I even had the opportunity to play “model” for her! We had a great time and she even handled my horrid baby hairs (thank you postpartum hair loss) like a champ and made my hair look amazing! I would definitely call on her if I needed to get my hair and makeup done for an event!
BAKERY:
Sweet Heather Anne
Heather is a gem—I have had the pleasure of learning cookie painting from her at the Bloom workshop and I have been admiring her designs ever since! (and the best part? they taste great too!) My personal favorites are her painted cakes! But for my own wedding, I know that I would probably go for one of her tone on tone cakes with some florals like this one.
(photo from @SweetHeatherAnne)
STATIONERY:
Blushed Design
Of course, if I was going to get married again, I would design my own wedding invitations! I would probably end up going with Italian handmade paper and my signature wax seal design. I love the oversized impact of the 6x8 invitation paired with some delicate illustrations!
CALLIGRAPHY:
Melinda Rae Designs
This category was really difficult for me to narrow down, but Melinda clearly won out in the end. Melinda is a dear friend of mine and a true artist. I am obsessed with her calligraphy. It’s just the right touch of whimsy and structure for my ideal clients. While I haven’t worked with her on a specific client yet, but I’m looking forward to doing so in the future!
Honorable Mention:
Leah E Moss
If you’re looking for stunning, traditional calligraphy, then Leah is your girl! She offers a variety of items—from mirrors to envelope addressing to wedding vows. She is a disciplined and dedicated business owner who I know I can trust.
Is there a category that I left out? Or someone I did not include that you think I should? Let me know and I’ll check them out!
